MARSP members are in our thoughts as we navigate the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the uncertainty it has created.  Although we’ve made some necessary changes to the way we live and work, the MARSP staff is continuing to serve our members’ needs.  Because your continued good health is part of the MARSP mission, we wanted to share best practices and perhaps answer questions you may have.

Many of you are in the age group that is identified as being most at risk for contracting the virus, but keep in mind that you also benefit from several factors that tend to keep you healthy.

1.  You are likely already paying attention to trusted health care sources and adhering to recommendations to stay home and limit exposure to even small groups of people who unknowingly may carry the virus.

2.  As retirees, your stress levels are generally lower, which is one of the most important factors in keeping you healthy.

3. You tend to take advantage of preventive health care options available to you as part of your retiree benefits.

Being in a “high risk” age group is not a guarantee you will contract the virus, but it does mean you should be as vigilant as possible to prevent your exposure.  In addition to the recommended “social distancing” and washing your hands often, other things to do include:

• If you have symptoms of the virus, call your doctor.  If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice. If it’s an emergency, call 911.
• Stay informed, but limit the time you spend watching or listening to negative news.  Some media outlets can focus heavily on reports that tend to create anxiety and fear.  Too much negativity is counterproductive to your mental and physical well being.
• Continue to eat well and choose nutritious foods that boost your immune system, rather than tax it.  Although trying times like these make us want “comfort foods,” be selective.  Foods high in fat, sugar and preservatives put extra stress on your entire system and use up energy that should be devoted to fighting off a virus.

For current and up-to-date information regarding the Coronavirus visit http://www.Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or http://www.CDC.gov/Coronavirus

Although we don’t know how long the virus outbreak will last or how severe it will be, taking it seriously is our best defense.  We recognize that new health issues could evolve for some of you as a result of a virus-related illness.  MARSP will continue to serve you and be a resource for your questions and concerns.  Although many of our staff are working from home in order to prevent a potential spread of the virus, we are still on the job and our work on your behalf continues.

We encourage you to try to stay positive during all the uncertainty, practice tolerance and patience and know that better days are ahead.

Additional resources:
Michigan.gov COVID-19 Tip Sheet for Older Adults